[Paddlewise] Which boat to roll?

In a message dated 1/30/01 3:58:23 PM, JSpinner_at_aol.com writes:

<< I'm wondering if working with a boat that is really that easy to roll is 
more 
productive than struggling with one that is harder? >>

    If you can indeed roll the harder of the two, then you will learn more 
about technique by working with that one. Many people get lazy when learning 
to roll and let themselves be satisfied with a roll that rights the boat 
rather than working towards the most effortless technique. On the other hand, 
sometimes the hardest rolls are first learned in a white water boat and then 
developed into a reliable roll in a seakayak.

    I have an Explorer (keeping it) and am buying a Gulfstream. The Explorer 
/ Romany rolls like a pin while the Gulfstream is significantly less 
forgiving of any fault in technique. (the GS is much more comfortable) I'm 
surprised to hear you say that the Breeze feels easy to roll. My Pachena 
rolled but I would not have called it an easy boat to roll. I personally feel 
the GS rolls more easily than the Pachena/Breeze design. Neither rolls 
anywhere as easily as a Romany or Explorer.

 <<    So, what do people think about continuing to work in the Breeze and 
going 
back to the GS like once a month for the next 2-3 months? One other 
motivation for that is the pool is really hard on my glass boat. Just getting 
in from the side has badly scratched the boat by the cockpit :( >>

    Nothing worse than scratching your boat at a pool. I used to place a 
towel over the edge to protect the boat, then I got the Brit Heavy and 
stopped caring about scratches. Given the scratch scenario, you might be 
better working with the Breeze but try to find a way to minimize the value of 
the paddle. This will force you to use better body position and hip-snap. 
Start extended, then work towards combat position. Then try choking up on the 
paddle or using a half paddle. The net effect is you will learn to use your 
body more and your paddle less. Then the particular boat you are rolling 
won't really matter.

Best of luck, keep us informed as to your progress!
Jed
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